Single Room vs Shared Room: Which is Best for Your Student Life?

Selecting the right accommodation can have a profound impact on your university life. Whether you’re about to begin your studies at Eduvos or Stadio in Cape Town, your choice of living arrangement is crucial to both your academic success and social well-being. With options ranging from single-student accommodation to shared spaces, deciding which setup suits you best can be challenging.

Let’s explore the pros and cons.

Privacy vs Socialising: What Suits You Best?

Opting for single-room student accommodation offers you your sanctuary. This is ideal for students who value their privacy, need a peaceful space to study, or simply prefer having full control over their living environment. With a single room, you can focus on your work, unwind, and relax without interruptions – perfect for those who need quiet time to recharge after a long day of lectures.

On the other hand, shared accommodation provides a more social atmosphere. Sharing a room with one or more students allows you to enjoy constant company and forge close friendships. If you thrive on social interaction and don’t want to feel isolated, a shared space could be a great fit. Living with others can also mean shared responsibilities and the chance to create a more collaborative and vibrant living environment.

Budget: What Can You Afford?

One of the key factors when choosing your student accommodation is cost. Shared accommodation is generally more affordable, as rent and expenses are divided among roommates. For students who are mindful of their budget, this can be a practical option that allows for saving on rent and allocating funds to other areas of student life.

In contrast, a single room typically has a higher price tag, reflecting the added privacy and comfort it offers. If you’re willing to invest in your own space, a single room might be worth the extra expense. Ultimately, the choice comes down to balancing your budget with your personal preferences for space and solitude.

Study Environment: What Helps You Focus?

Your living environment can greatly impact your ability to study. Single rooms give you the quiet and privacy to focus without interruptions. If you need peace and quiet to stay focused, this setup might help you reach your academic goals.

Shared student living doesn’t always mean sacrificing a good study environment. If your roommates have similar study habits or if you find that collaboration helps you succeed, a shared room can still be a good study space. Study & Stay accommodation, for example, has high-speed WiFi and quiet communal areas, so you have the right tools to study no matter your room.

Social Life: Alone Time or Building Friendships?

Choosing a single room means more time for yourself, which can be ideal for introverts or those who enjoy their own company. However, this option may make socialising more challenging, especially if you’re new to the area or looking to build a social network on campus.

In a shared room, you’ll have plenty of opportunities for interaction. From spontaneous conversations and shared meals to group study sessions, living with roommates can enhance your student experience, helping you to build strong connections and a support network from day one.

Study & Stay: What We Offer

At Study & Stay, we offer both single and shared accommodation options. Our Maree Street hostel in Bellville, Cape Town, offers 48 beds across single and shared rooms, while our Durban Road hostel, set to open in 2025, will add 28 beds. Both locations feature live-in superintendents, high-speed WiFi, and excellent security, ensuring a safe and comfortable living experience for all our students.

Make the Right Choice

When it comes to choosing between a single room and shared accommodation, it all depends on your personal priorities. A single room may be the best option if you value privacy, quiet, and having a dedicated space to focus on your studies. But if you’re keen on a more cost-effective solution and want to form close friendships, shared accommodation could be the perfect fit.

Whatever your decision, Study & Stay’s well-equipped and secure hostels have everything you need for a fulfilling and enjoyable student experience in Cape Town.